Going faster than you can hit in training

Published on March 27, 2025
Duration: 7:10

This video explains Ben Stoeger's training philosophy of shooting 'uncomfortably fast' to identify and correct technical flaws. The approach involves pushing speed beyond current capabilities, observing what breaks down, and then adjusting technique to improve performance under pressure. This method is presented as more effective for development than simply slowing down to achieve accuracy.

Quick Summary

Ben Stoeger's training philosophy emphasizes shooting 'uncomfortably fast' to expose technical flaws. By pushing beyond current capabilities, shooters can identify and correct issues like altered trigger pulls or poor target transitions that arise under pressure, leading to accelerated skill development.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Question
  2. 00:30Training Speed vs. Match Speed
  3. 00:50Stoeger's Aggressive Speed Training Philosophy
  4. 01:15Critique of Traditional Training Methods
  5. 02:07How Speed Affects Trigger Pull & Technique
  6. 02:31The Trap of Slowing Down
  7. 03:00Experiential & Inductive Learning
  8. 03:10Shooting at Real Engagement Speed
  9. 03:30Allowing for Mistakes & Building Awareness
  10. 03:59Focus on Technical Breakdown, Not Just Score
  11. 04:25Specific Example: Target Transitions
  12. 04:58Identifying Over-Driving the Gun
  13. 05:30The Practice Format: Cold Shoot & Push
  14. 05:54Caveat: Not Just Spraying Bullets
  15. 06:24Fastest Path to Desired Skill Level
  16. 07:05Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Ben Stoeger's recommended training strategy for improving shooting speed?

Ben Stoeger advocates for shooting 'uncomfortably fast,' approximately 80% of the time in training. This method involves pushing beyond your current capabilities to intentionally reveal technical breakdowns, allowing you to identify and correct flaws that wouldn't surface at slower paces.

Why is it important to shoot faster than you can hit accurately in training?

Shooting faster than your current accuracy allows forces you to confront and understand the specific mechanical issues that arise under pressure. This 'experiential learning' builds awareness and accelerates skill development more effectively than simply slowing down to achieve hits.

What common shooting mistakes occur when increasing speed?

When increasing speed, shooters often change their trigger pull technique, pressing the trigger instead of a clean pull, or they may over-drive the gun during target transitions, causing shots to drift off target due to shoulder tension or aggressive sight following.

How should I adjust my technique when speed training reveals accuracy issues?

Instead of slowing down, focus on observing what specific technical element is breaking down (e.g., trigger control, sight tracking, grip). Then, adjust that specific mechanic to regain accuracy at the higher speed, repeating the cycle of pushing speed and refining technique.

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